We all know that the month of October is an awareness of three concerns: Breast Cancer, Domestic Violence and Bully Awareness. Everytime we flip the calendar to the 10th month of Halloween we tend to remind ourselves that the issues and concerns of these items are still out there to be informed and also summarized. We get it. Hopefully. But in the recent acts of Sexual Assault discovered by Harvey Weinstein and many others whom did the act, many women are speaking out on the issue that many know very well. As they should. And even a black woman, Tarana Burke whom was a victim of Sexual Assault years ago formed the slogan “Me Too” 10 years ago is now continuing her message of the concerns and lessons she endured. And by the way for you Caucasian hashtaggers , you must know that the Me Too thing actually started by Tarana Burke, a black woman so don’t assumed you “just now” invented it.

Now I’m going to talk about a male’s point of view of being assaulted sexually and bullied. About three years ago, I attended my church’s Love Is event in the subject that dealth with domestic violence in relationships. One of the panelist was by the name of , from the Alma Center in Milwaukee. He was at the time gave a discussion about Domestic Violence from a Man’s Point of View. He talked about the subject called the Manbox. It was about in purpose about in certain times Men don’t get all emotional like women. Like crying. Or instead having you not cry to make sure you’re not weak. Or you have to hit women just because….When I was in the 9th grade at John Marshall High School, apparently I was in a school fight with another freshman at the time. The year was 1991 and it was in December, a week after my 15th birthday hard to believe. We were suspended for about two days since certain words were on repeat. When we were reinstated, a conversation was instilled about being ribbed on shouldn’t lead to fights. Even though that was so-called neutral, but I remember when my mother said that I was at a point where I was provoked. To the then VP of the school. So yes, I was provoked. And folks had to trip about who won the fight. So Ive been more defensive minded since my teen years which expands to this day! It seems that all this goes back to upbringings. Broken homes. The father was not at home or mother was always tripping. Or lack of self-esteem. Or when the pranks or the class clown thing will get his or hers a beat down after all the crap. Most of my MPS years I dealt with bullies. Even those on a sexual assault level that had almost gropped me back in Middle School! And the dude was “messing around.” Plus a female did that almost in the 9th grade as I was walking to class. And I’m like, no she didn’t! It seems like fun and games but it’s a freaking crime! This is not a joke. None. And for you females think it’s a joke and funny that a dude like me went through that, sorry it’s not funny. It’s not.

Why am I telling you this? Many must be like: really?! And what does all of this have to do with bulling and sexual assault? It kind of hit me: When you bully someone, it’s like sexual assault. You’re bullying someone that doesn’t want to be toyed with. Nor ribbed on. If you want that, you’re asking for trouble! Serious trouble. And you best believe that many who have been in that position, will speak out, blog it, or whatever in getting that message that it’s not cool!

If you are in high school or middle school (and I know you’ve been reading my blogs) and had this done to you, get a grown up to talk to. With all this going on with the Cyber bulling on Social Media, and the Sexting on smartphones and those that you can’t stand in a negative fashion in person, it’s time to not talk about it but also defend yourself! It’s time. Stop letting these fools and stupid dumb girls who bully you or sexually assault you to get away with murder! Men, we too have to stand up and declare that this is DEAD WRONG! Many of us Men probably had been gropped, or bullied or both at a time long ago, and many of us didn’t have answers. Now many of us whom have kids, or around kids we best believe that we have to do the protection thing more serious now.

And I should point out that there are “grown bullies” we have to deal with. Like Donald Trump. Yes I’m putting him in this. They are also called haters, racists, sextists, pacifists, all that and very evil. We have to put up with them everyday at work, church, the mall, the club, college rooms, and many other places of establishment. Even when you are looking for a job. And I know because I remember what I went through with the reaction of The Milwaukee Urban League did with me was very bully like from Betty Speed. She was indeed a bully attacking me for my content of my character and education in getting my degree from UW-Stout. Oh heck yes. So many times in Milwaukee I had to DEFEND my education from UW-Stout in a way that I have to tell the truth of what I was doing and having a balance. Manpower, Spherion, and other folks and goons both black and white all hating on a black man like me getting a college degree, by using Distance Education! Talk about being bullied.

And then when I had to go to Alumni functions for UW-Stout in Milwaukee,I felt that I need to “apologize” for not coming to the campus during my 4 years. But wait a minute: Something told me to say this. “Stephen, stop apologizing! Stop it right now. Yes you could have gone on Stout’s campus and completed your degree, but YOU opted to complete it by using Distance Education and getting it done in Milwaukee! You did it your way. Not their way!” End of story.

I know that the previous part had nothing to do with bulling or sexual assault. But partially it does matter in a sense that it will not hinder me to not fall for the “Okie Doke” that might spell Doom for me. They didn’t knew “jack squat” of my objective and goals. None. And that is so sad even in today’s era. Just like bullying.

Yep: Bullies suck! Just like those doing sexual assulting they will get caught and learn! Game over.

Of course it is. Many have now realized that the Lakewood Church in Houston is having lots of company in which those whom are still in need of shelter, clothing, food and many other needs that those are displaced. And Houston, I must say again that many are us in prayer that you will recover and revive your community. And yes many of us don’t know jack about what you’re going through with the flooding from the Hurricane but just assure that many of us got your back with donations, support, inspriration, and many other needs. So yes Houston, we got you.

Now again, it’s time to go back to the thing of hating on the cloth. Pastors. Lots of us already know that the Lakewood Church in Houston, the same church that many of you critics hammered on that wouldn’t open up. And having some claims that it wasn’t flooded. Yeah that one. The same one that opened up and did what they had to do and many folks (non-believers and believers) had to still comment about Osteen not doing it sooner. Look, I don’t know how Lakewood Church operates, and neither do you or I. They don’t operate like the smaller churches like our grandparents and great grandparents went to years ago before many of us were born. Again, WE DON’T KNOW SH*T! We don’t. Stop playing.

I want everyone to view this video clip from Facebook. This minister, Chad E. Brown had a whole lot to say in regarding churches, the concerns, and what many are not saying after the bashing of Joel Osteen. Again, I’m not a fan of his work. But I’m a fair minded person that has to give the other side a chance to respond.

Did you hear what he had to say? I’m asking again: did you HEAR what he said? Don’t act like you know. Oh, the phrase he used the words: “Stupid People!” And personally, I don’t blame him. It’s the actions and reactions. The same stuff many that commented on. Oh yes, many of you got guilt written all because of this man’s stance with his church being all closed up. No I am not defending him. What I am defending is something that many of you NEVER commented on: Safety. The first thing you wake up in the morning: Safety. The next thing you do when going to work or school: Safety. The next thing when you take your breaks/lunch or whatever: SAFETY, and BEFORE you go to bed and set your alarm: SAFETY! Now if the idea of Osteen’s church opened up when all the floors were wet in all the folks he would let in would be at risk. Ok, so Osteen said that he could have been more aware ahead of time. He could have. He could have done that idea.

In the winter of 2014 there was an email blast put out on our lists, in regarding severe weather. This was a wind chill weather factor that happened in Wisconsin and at the time, the Wisconsin Conference of the United Methodist Church sent us this message:

Weather Precautions Advised; Shelters May Be NeededWisconsin needs to be ready for a dangerous blast of arctic air that will be moving into the state on Sunday and persisting through Tuesday. Meteorologists are predicting lows Sunday night of -10 to -25 with wind chills at -40 or lower. Monday, highs will reach only -5 to -15 with wind chills remaining in the -30 to -40 range.

Church leaders, please take a few moments to read over some health and safety tips from the State of Wisconsin here and here. Some churches may be asked to provide shelter to those who may be facing problems during this bout of very severe and dangerous weather. Your local news station will have the most current information on conditions in your area.

In addition, the Sun Prairie Conference Center will be closed on Monday.

This message, again came from the headquarters of the Wisconsin United Methodist Churches in Sun Prairie ahead of the Wind Chill on a Friday BEFORE the weather happened in January of 2014. And yes I remember putting this same message out on Facebook to inform my audience about that yes, some churches were available to be open for those whom want to keep warm and etc. WE WERE WELL INFORMED! And of course there are those who will complain and piss about Churches in general being negative after you survived 4 to 8 years without providing YOUR ideas to the table or to the Pastor. HELLO! No wonder we got some weak minded folks who just left with doing nothing. Oh yes, I’m not talking about those who actually are trying. I’m talking about those who gave up and complain! In my “Church Experience” of 27 years as of this year of 2017, I went through the ups and downs and been criticized in all, BUT I AM STILL THERE doing my part! Now I’m an officer and have a head position of Social Media under the Communications and doing what I like every week. I have been call out for Tweeting in church like every week, but I still do it anyway every time! And I’ve been a employee of the church since 2007 for 10 YEARS! And in the 10 years, I didn’t just work, but I also participated in meetings, took notes, went on field trips for note taking for administrative needs. So yes, I’m doing my part instead of moaning and groaning for doing nothing!

But like the pastor said in the video that he (Pastor Joel Osteen) had a family to look after first to make sure that they are ok. No matter what happens: FAMILY ALWAYS COMES FIRST! Period. No matter what religion or being mixed up with the consciousness being all free thinking and yes you will have the folks will say the mess that you would not believe. I KNOW. And here’s the thing, it’s not just those outside of the church, but also in the church too. Whereas not just on SOCIAL MEDIA, but also away from social media. And not just on the job, but also outside of the work of those long hours for that one paycheck! Somebody say amen! And I don’t care if you went to the same Schools, Colleges, joined up a fraternity, sorority or whatever. There are those who will say whatever in a negative sense no matter what group or organization you belong too. Of course there are those whom are going to say, “Oh you know it’s freedom of speech! It’s the truth, duh!” However, you need to watch your words. That tongue thing is mighty wicked at times.

Now I’ll know that many of you got booted off of someone’s Facebook timeline or lists all because of someone’s wicked feelings about a certain pastor or a certain time when the church was really popping but popping out of order. You left. You posted your feelings of hate and guilt towards others whom probably are still members who have the faith and beliefs. And also the others gain the defense of the beliefs. They get ticked off and you make the move to remove them all because they follow the likes of Creflo Dollar, Joyce Meyer, or Jimmy Swaggart. REALLY?! You had those “good folks”, on your contacts but you let them go all because of a certain pastor or bishop or evangelist they follow or gain support. Maybe you should have been booted off the Island! I think I know the reason why. Your mind and words say one thing, but your eyes says something else. And that something else is fear. Be honest.

When I was a youth member at the New St. James Community Church UMC (or St. James United Methodist Church) in Milwaukee, we were passing around flyers in the neighborhood of 24th and Keefe for an upcoming summer program. We did all the houses back then and of course some of the neighbors at the time were yelling and nearly cussing at us youth folks all because of informing the neighborhood about the church’s program. This was in the late 80’s or early 90’s. And again I was a youth member. I do remember telling my mother about the incident and it was discussed. Look we were in our youth teen days back then and I wasn’t as defensive minded then. Now I am. What I’m getting at is this, fear and misunderstanding can be a mess. And many folks know it. Even you know it from being messed with on Social Media. I don’t blame the technology set up of Social Media of people’s problems. That rests on the folks who use it in a negative fashion! Just like a credit card. Or the Telephone. And for you hyper consciousness folks even you also can use your tongues of pride in a negative sense too!

I dare someone say that on Facebook. Go ahead. Some will agree, some won’t. But when it comes to these knowledgeable things per se, that will change. And I know that many don’t want to hear it. BUT THEY KNOW IS SO TRUE! Just like when many say, “Oh Joel Osteen should have opened his doors.” False narrative! The truth: he didn’t have the doors closed. Plus also the blame could be put on the City of Houston for not giving that distinct order to get the ball rolling for this. So point the fingers on that.

I did a scenario on Facebook about buildings being inaccessible. And insurance plus liability. And when I was doing the example, it brought me back to the days of my Industrial Management Distance Education Homework Assignments of UW-Stout. And I shared that same experience of Homework with my Church because there some concerns of Safety Clearances that had to be cleared up from my lessons in the classroom. Many you so-called church experts who lambasted on Facebook need to check yourselves. Go to school and learn Occupational Safety. And even if the building had wet floors, that too can be a health concern hazard. Why? When water seeps into buildings or homes, it’s dirty. We don’t know what might be in that water that made it murky. But after all that water would get pumped out, it leaves behind mold and dirty on the floor, the walls and yes carpets! The smell of that will be harmful and yes THAT is a health risk! And you want the folks to go into the church with that going on? When Pastor Osteen said something about safety concerns, THIS came to mind! Hate the notion all you want but the thing is the building should have been check out before anyone or anybody should have walked in! Church folks: have some of your members take these Occupational Safety classes or workshops at your colleges or universities. I want to suggest this!

Folks: ministers are regular people. We may think we have them to fight all the mess by themselves, but it’s more than just them fighting the system. It takes a team effort to do it. And plus I knew PASTORS (even though it’s United Methodists) that had been bullied, attacked all because of their stance of ministry. And usually the most came from the former members. And some non-members too! And District Superintendents who oversees circuit ministries. I kid you not! And sometimes Bishops don’t even care also at times.

I felt a need to say this more because, coming from a person who has a sibling that went though ministry: I get it. And no I’m not a pastor. And I get what the minister said on the video because in some instances I get what he’s saying also.

Again: if you haven’t done so, donate and pray for Houston. Even if you don’t have family there but hey do it anyway.

New Thought: Stay away from Primerica. I mean it. Stay Away!!!!! The 30 year old company called me last week to see if I was intereted in working by selling insurance to customers, or in this case middle income families. Yes, they would invite you into their office, fill out and application, have the semi-interviews, but in the end you might need to ask the questions of the company yourself. Other than that, Ripoff.com. or those whom have contacted by the company for the same issue. Other than that it is wise to have a company looked up to pay nothing for training than 200.00. I got the picture. Did you?

New Thought: Tell the truth. Last week in my MyFoxMilwaukee blog, I posted my story about how I got my BS degree through Distance Education. And I was commented that I shouldn’t mention it.Well, I know that it shouldn’t matter in all, but the thing is here is reason why: I have to mention it: at an earlier age, my parents and those around me always told me to speak yourself. That was one thing, but the other just to save myself. I mention DE because I did not want to hide anything. That comes to say if you have filled out an application, and the question comes up: “Have you ever been convicted of a crime, or violation of an traffic law?” If you have, fess up. Speak now, or forever hold your peace. And an additional reason is because I had jobs in Milwaukee, while doing DE with UW-Stout. Happy now? Good. That why I do it! Remember these words: Whatever It Takes

New Thought: Martha, Adina, and any other “chick from Wisconsin” who thought I have a twin, or have been in their neck of the woods. Listen here. You have a MS page, but no pictures, why you want to meet me on your fling site? Are you afraid or are you a fake person that wants to get laid? Tell me something! I ain’t buying!

New Thought: George Lopez has to be the funniest latino on the planet. I checked out his HBO Special last week, and to me, some of the things he said was not only funny, but the truth.

New Thought: More Katt Williams and Chris Rock on DVD please. Need more pimp chronicles and bigger and blackers. Or Never Scared vids. I did like the lines that he said blacks should have some white friends. And vice versa. Life is too short. I still can’t over his comments about Michael Jackson!

New Thought: What’s up with black women with red hair? I know this is America. Land of the free. Home of the Brave. Freedom of Expression. But the thing is, sometimes expression, like keeping it real, goes to far. Black women, I love you like sisters, mothers, and aunts, but TONE DOWN THE RED HAIR!

New Thought: Harley-Davidson should invite black artists next year for the 105th Anniversary. Yes I have seen blacks artists on motorcycles, but hey, invites some r&b, hip hop, rap, soul performers next year also. Maybe the thought of Elton John would just go away from 2003.

New Thought: I am not a supporter of Michael McGee Jr. Never have, and now never will. I heard at one time he was a real nice man in a school. But what happened? Oh, we know what happened! Never mind. No, his father did not say he wants to come out of retirement. I don’t see that happening! ViAnna Jordan warned us, and we didn’t listen.

And finally new thought: Despite of the so called warnings from Al-Queda and Osama bin Laden, I am not going to stop being……me. That’s right. I can’t stop being me. As long as we have well trained military personal stationed left and right and protecting good from evil, I am not going to stop being me. As an American citizen, I can say that. To those who commit acts of Terrorism, you can flash all the warning videos all you want to. But the thing is, were watching and our troops, ready.

Preface: IT WILL BE, 10 years since I walked across the stage at UW-Stout in front of family and teachers. But this summary from the University explains it all. Congrats to the 2016 grads, and congrats to us 2006 grads for getting to the decade years later! So as is, plus along with the University’s 125th Anniversary, (Come to think it was their 115th Anniversary 10 years ago) here is the actual story from the University of Wisconsin-Stout’s Website.

This Friday will be the actual commencement anniversary. And also, I will be commenting on it of the preceding events, plus commentary that had those “attacking” me on this notion, but also I will highlight the last 10 years since getting the degree and the next phase for the next decade.

So until then, review the story below that was 10 years in the making.

Chancellor addresses May graduates

University of Wisconsin-Stout Chancellor Charles W. Sorensen addressed graduates of the May 2006 class Saturday morning, telling them that “you have done a fine job and this is a day of celebration.”

Approximately 840 graduates received degrees during the ceremony at Johnson Fieldhouse, with 120 of those earning advanced degrees.

Sorensen talked briefly about three people – Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King and John Hope Franklin – that influenced not only his life, but in many ways shaped the forces of the 20th century.

“They speak to us in different ways today, but their lives and their belief systems are linked by powerful ideas and beliefs central to our history; central to our lives and your lives,” Sorensen told the graduates. “As you leave UW-Stout as new, well-educated professionals, assuming new roles as responsible citizens, I want you to think seriously about the lessons these people give us.”

In speaking of Gandhi, Sorensen mentioned how the “power of this one man’s ideas led to Indian independence and inspired a people and the world.”

On King, Sorensen talked about how the civil rights leader knew “ideas had to be transformed into action, into seeking the truth, challenging injustice, addressing poverty and all other forces that stood in the way to creating a just society.”

When discussing Franklin, Sorensen told of Franklin being “a voice and an activist for social justice; he became and remains the critic asking why America cannot do an effective job in ending racial discrimination and providing all Americans of all races the chance to live the American dream.”

Tying all three men together, Sorensen told the commencement gathering “they all committed their lives to the highest level of moral and ethical values, something we should all strive to do. They stayed true to those ideals, became living role models for all, even those that sought to destroy their character or even end their lives. Finally, they committed to apply those ideals in practical ways to work for a just society.

“That is a good charge for you and every American.”

Classes at UW-Stout ended Tuesday, May 9. An evaluation week began Thursday, May 11 and ends Wednesday, May 17.

This is for all my University of Wisconsin folks: The Real UW though, it’s a story that needs to be called and conversated. I was like many in Wisconsin last week, looking at the footage of the Vice Chancelor of Diversity, talking about a note that was left by some faceless cowards, that read some explicit languages about a some sort of threat.

For those whom have not heard the message, I want those to hear what the Vice Chancellor had to say. Be warned: this message contains explicit language. Get the kids out the room now.

This is just one example of what the College Campuses or Universities that are facing each day. The last time I visited UW-Madsion was way back in the 90’s. 1993 and 1994 when the Badgers Football Team was on point back then.Camp Randall Stadium. And I was with the Special Education students while in High School in Milwaukee. But this was when, Badger Football got me hooked. And have been for 23 years.

I have had some friends, some colleges, and those I know in a sense graduated from UW and keep that Badger Red flowing with their careers, activities, and giving back to those less fortunate. And I had some that worked for UW also.

But after seeing this so called note and those whom like to hide behind notes, it’s not about the giving back thing. It’s basically about having those conversations that this campus as well as any campus in the nation is having about race. For you current college students at UW, if you think stuff like this is bad, wait until you graduate and get those jobs. Those on the outside will not give a rat’s butt about your livelihood, career, or even your race! And you’ll see what they really are. This is not the classroom or residence hall. This real world, is just that. But don’t let that stop you.

Now in another sense, there is hate from the student or students who just have that same hate that many in their families probably went through the same thing. Oh, yes the colleges and universities are full of them! Even though that Easter passed, how many of these families whom had their kids being sent to college had this haterism against those of a different race because they were black? And it’s a popular college where most know? Again it’s mostly known.

Just last year, you remember the SAE Fraternity on Oklahoma’s Campus? The popular one. Yeah, that one.

Recently the Vice Chancellor had an updated video after the first one surfaced:

Plus also, an update of the story came forward when a current student was a target of the incident.

Folks, this is what happens when cowards are just that: Cowards! They hide behind the statements and try to scare away folks who are up for the chance to shine. This incident, was according to the story in Madison, was not about hating on Hillary or Bernie. This was about an issue that many know all to well, but it’s not been heard or shown. If you are a Alum of UW, you probably need to hold your donation money! That’s right hold that donation money. And while you Alums of UW are holding your money, you need to let your Alma Mater know that this story out of the campus is unacceptable and it needs to be dealt with. I know many of you, are proud Badger Alums and you take it seriously. Nothing wrong with that. BUT you need to hold your Alma Mater accountable! When UW-Stout had it’s racial incident years ago about a then 19 year old black female that was a target of racism, of course that it was talked about and summarized. But how has that improved since that incident that sparked? Also this part of the story has nothing to do with The Real UW story, but UW-Stout had an instructor that displayed signs and slogans of trauma, and killing folks once. And the thing is, the instructor was warned about this many times from the UW-Stout Police and the previous Admininstration. But one of the quotes was from a show called Firefly! A one sesason, Sci-Fi, TV show. And I remember also when that story broke out on Facebook, there were some Stout Alumni indicated that if the teacher didn’t get his job back, they were NOT going to donate any dollars to the school! OH YES THEY DID!

How was that resolved? The administration backed out and backed down that it wasn’t a real meaning to hurt those in a real physical sense. And yes he got his job back. But if that was black teacher that did those things of display, no job. Fired. Pink slipped handed away and out of the door. But we don’t want to see that now do we?

What we are talking about, is a dumb college kid that snuck a letter of hate all because the black student were calling out the Racism in a Big Ten University like UW-Madison! So if a black student at a well known or not well known college or university got a note from a faceless coward, is that person going to back down and move? Probably not.

But in all cases, the talk of racism is real. And it comes in many forms. Verbal, Visual, and many others. And it’s still real as a all white suburban neighborhood. Or the inner city. Or many others. Even at a job that many will not take due to being black in America!

Even Bucky has to realize that it will take more than a few pushups at the Kohl Center and Camp Randall to get the convo started. Just saying.

Don’t get me wrong, I like UW-Madison. But still, The struggle continues! And that is a part of #THEREALUW that many need to know and do to rise up.

As I said many times that I was a Distance Education Student of the University of Wisconsin – Stout between 2002 to 2006. And yes, I acquired the degree of Bachelor’s of Science in Industrial Management within those four years.

Was it really all that to go though?

Check out these comparisons and yes, for you traditional going into the classrooms and learning in stuff students, and former students, and those companies or businesses whom are so skeptical in Human Resources: read this article. This might surprise you.

Don’t be a hater!

Plus, if there are those whom might think that Online Education is easy: like the classroom, it can be as hard as the regular classroom!

No need for an intro. Bucky is back. The 2014-2015 UW Badgers Basketball Team is back on the scene in route to the Final Four for the second year in the row. I want tell all of the folks in the country right now, do not underestimate the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Don’t!

Now last year, I channeled my inner-Wisconsin Side by supporting the Cardinal and White and having this #UWUnity thing on my tweets and Instagram. Why the #UWUnity thing. Why this. This is my saying of supporting the well known renound UW-School system that made many folks famous in world in and beyond went to the University in the state. The UW-School system is really not just UW-Madison. It’s also UW-Milwaukee, UW-Green Bay, UW-Whitewater, UW-Stevens Point, UW-Oshkosh, UW-Eau Claire, UW-Superior, my alma mater of UW-Stout, UW-River Falls, UW-Waukesha, UW-Parkside, UW-Platteville, UW-Superior, just to name a few. With all the hoopla that our Governor numb nuts of Scott Walker wanted to slash about 300 Million Dollars from the UW-School System, this is the one point in the state that we need #UWUnity. No matter the size, or the location.No matter the division of 1, 2 or 3. Every UW-School is all part of the UW-School System. UW-Madison is the heart. The main course. And yes, it’s the centralized link of all the Universities and in my estimation, it’s the Wisconsin Idea!

Many of us UW Alumni of any UW school is a beneficiary of the Wisconsin Idea. Whether we like it or not. We are apart of that tradition that keeps the schools going for the current students, and the students yet to be.

But now, it’s time talk about the Badgers! Since Bucky is back in the final four, I want let the Badger crew to do one thing if and when they face Kentucky:

Eat, Sleep, Believe and Repeat.

Eat, Sleep, Believe and Repeat.

Eat, Sleep, Believe and Repeat.

Eat, Sleep, Believe and Repeat.

Eat, Sleep, Believe and Repeat.

Eat, Sleep, Believe and Repeat.

Eat, Sleep, Believe and Repeat.

Eat, Sleep, Believe and Repeat.

Eat, Sleep, Believe and Repeat.

Eat, Sleep, Believe and Repeat.

Eat, Sleep, Believe and Repeat.

Eat, Sleep, Believe and Repeat.

EAT, SLEEP, BELIEVE AND REPEAT!

Oh I know I’m acting like Paul Heyman to Brock Lesnar in the WWE, but guess what. That chant he did last year, worked. Look what it did at Wrestlemania 30 in the match I refuse to see on DVD, and yes it happened again against John Cena in a WWE Championship Match in which he won. I know it’s wrestling!

But in this fashion, Kentucky is on a undefeated streak currently. It’s a well known fact that streaks can be broken! Just a heads up Wildcats. Other teams checked in to the Final Four: Duke and Michigan State, in which both teams are doing well. But to be more blunt, I want to see a B1G Basketball Representation this year in the final two: Wisconsin and Michigan States in an upset.

So hear me now, like last year, never overlook a Badger.The last time they ever won a National Championship was in 1941 and many of us weren’t even around yet! Yes I’ve seen the Sam Okeys, the Michael Finleys, and now I’m seeing the Frank Kaminskies, the Nigel Hayes, the Traveon Jacksons and yes even the Gossers, and the Sam Dekkers. Oh yeah, the Bucky crew is revamped.

Recently, the Govenor himself Scott Walker had done another slashing of education. This time it’s $300 Million in which that would effect classes, teachers, layoffs and many otehrs. Plus also what do us Alumni have to say about this? Personally, I think every single of us who have gone to UW-Madison, Green Bay, Milwaukee, LaCrosse, Oshkosh, Stevens Point, Stout and many others need to start speaking up and tell this govenor that we, as Alumni of our schools SHOULD NOT LET THIS STAND! Even though Scott Walker already given $200 MIllion for the new Milwaukee Bucks Arena, and I do understand that yes, the Bucks need a new home to play in or the NBA will be out to get the team to another city. I get that. However, as a Alum of the UW School System, like many of you, need to be concerned NOW how to support the UW-School System in which gave us love and degrees. So with that, here is my blog letter.

SideNote: And to my Sports folk: exepect my Packers/Badgers sent letter later on.

Dear UW-School System (and Alumni):

It’s me, Stephen. I’m a black blogger from Milwaukee, and a alum of UW-Stout.

CALLOUT: We need to stand up!

I repeat, we need to stand up for our UW-School System. Now I know many have gotten our degrees and put them to work in our respected cities and also new digs, but I must say that its time that our former schools need our help.

I know also that we get those alumni newsletters in the mail about donate to this and that. And yes we put them to the side and forget it. But I think and believe that in the midst of this matter, I am calling on us UW Alumni to do one thing: GIVE BACK!

I don’t care if you are a alum of UW-Madison, Milwaukee, Green Bay, LaCrosse, Whitewater, Eau Claire, Superior, Oshkosh, Stevens Point, Waukesha, and or my UW School of Stout, we are in this!

If we TRULY loved our schools like we say we do, then I say as a UW ALUM, give back! There needs to be a unity of all UW Schools here in the state that is willing to give back. Even keeping the mantra of the Wisconsin Idea in full effect. And with me being an alum, with all the educational things I did with Stout, the Wisconsin Idea still lingers. Even with Distance Education! Don’t front!!!

I am also challenging all alumni of the UW to have gatherings at your next reunions or meet ups to discuss new ways to reach out about what can the alumni do to help this cause. Even doing a #UWUNITY T-Shirt. I don’t care. As long as it goes to whatever, it happens.

Yes Americans. That ongoing concern of post racial society is not working. No there are not silver bullets for this. Nor knives or any other weapons. The reason for this story, because most recently, my alma mater of UW-Stout was recently hit with a local white resident expressing racial slurs to a student of color all because the resident of Menomonie blocked a parking area. See the message that the new chancellor, Bob Meyer addressed the Stout community.

A message from Chancellor Meyer concerning a recent act of racial hate against two of our students:

I have heard from a number of people that they would like more details of the hate incident that occurred recently involving two of our students and a male Menomonie resident. According to our University Police Department, this is what happened:

A female African American student, with her roommate, was driving in the north campus area and was followed by the man into Lot 32 after a traffic dispute. She couldn’t find a parking spot and, when she tried to leave the lot, the man’s vehicle blocked her exit.

The man then got out of his vehicle and started yelling at the student, including the use of racial slurs. Eventually, the student was allowed to drive out of the lot, and she reported the incident to campus police.

The man subsequently was identified, and he has been charged with the crime of disorderly conduct, with an enhanced hate-crime penalty. His case is pending in Dunn County Circuit Court.

I want to emphasize how seriously I view this incident and any incident in which one of our students (or employees) is subjected to discrimination because of their race, gender, religion, sexual orientation or any other reason. Hate crimes and bias incidents have no place on our campus or in the community, period.

The campus has a Bias Incident Response Team, and it met as soon as this incident was reported. I was kept apprised of the team’s response.

The initial response was intended to ensure the students had all the support possible and to identify the perpetrator. The dean of students, director of Multicultural Students Services and university police met with the two students the night of the incident and continued to work with them to ensure their needs were met.

I look forward to this incident leading to increased dialogue among the university community about how to enhance the level of civility, acceptance and respect of all people. We all want a safe and welcoming campus and community.

MENOMONIE – UW-Stout Chancellor Bob Meyer said he believes a recently reported incident involving at least one racial slur used against a UW-Stout black student will lead to greater education across campus and Menomonie about civility and respect for all.

UW-Stout police received a report on Nov. 11 from a 19-year-old woman that a white man had threatened her and used at least one racial slur against her. He also blocked her into a university parking lot with his pickup truck, according to UW-Stout police Chief Lisa Walter.

Grundeman is scheduled to appear in court Dec. 9. A criminal complaint had not been filed as of Wednesday.

At the intersection of Crescent Street, Fourth Avenue and Broadway Street, the student reported, her vehicle was almost struck by the pickup truck after it ran a red light.

Grundeman told authorities he had the green light and the student ran a red light, Walter said.

“They believed the other person was at significant fault,” Walter said.

After the near accident, Grundeman is accused of following the woman and another student, who was a passenger in the car and blocking the exit of a university parking lot and yelling at the student. Police said they believe the racial slur was used multiple times.

The students reported that Grundeman threatened he would kill the woman if they were alone. Grundeman told authorities he said the woman could be killed if she continued to drive in that manner, Walter said.

The passenger in Grundeman’s pickup truck posted an account of the traffic altercation on social media, and police were able to determine Grundeman was the driver after talking to the passenger.

Grundeman admitted to being upset and told police he directed a racial slur at the woman, Walter said. Grundeman was arrested Nov. 12 and taken to the Dunn County Jail before he was released.

Meyer said it is upsetting that Grundeman used “despicable language” against the woman.

“My first reaction as a parent was ‘Is my student in a safe school?’ ” Meyer said. “The university has been working a long time to create a welcoming environment. This is not the type of behavior we would like to see. We are trying to create a place of respect and tolerance and a safe environment for students.”

The UW-Stout Bias Incident Response Team met as soon as the incident was reported and worked to provide support for the two students and to locate Grundeman, Meyer said.

In the aftermath of the incident, UW-Stout students are planning activities that include a solidarity demonstration sometime next week.

In this, this is one example that the relations talk about race is still on the table. I know that many are going to say, and here it comes: “I have a lot of black friends……” Well first of all, as I said many times before, that quote is not cutting it. If those wanting to know the black student population at UW-Stout, its low around 0.6%. Yes we all should know that the University is a PWI school, located in Dunn County near Eau Claire. But that’s not the story. What is the story the most, is the on going racism among college campuses. And also there are those who think that it doesn’t exist. Umm….notes to those who want to know, it does exist and it has many forms and angles. Even you see it on the outside of a college dorm room or a college class room. I want those who feel it’s all smoke and mirrors, or to think that we should be on the “Human Race” factor, well let me tell you, if those doing the history of certain things, the Human Race per say, was started and originated by black folks. That’s where your human race thing started up! Go all the way back to the beginning of human civilization where mostly African black people were the first of it’s debut. That’s your human race! Plus also in order to be apart of this Human race thing, in my view, you have to start out in your house. And speaking of houses, we all know that the Holidays are coming up. Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and of course to round out the year of with New Year’s Eve and Day. Yes, when the dinners happen, we will probably hear that uncle, or that aunt, or believe it or not, your older cousin or parents, or maybe grandparents in which they might make those black N*gger jokes around the dinner table. Or those Gay hating dialogue commentary. We know this! But to those who are doing the defending of those who have friends who are black or gay or whatever that is making no big deal of those who are in those categories:

Challenge statement here – if you really have those friends of African decent, or those who like to love the same gender and they are being commented on, would you defend them?

Or in getting to this question: if the guys or gals per say who make the racial commentary, and you have shared a beer or a game with them in a friendly way, are they are the same folks who go home in their households? I say this alot.

But getting back to UW-Stout and this racial incident. I say this as an alum of the school. Got my bachelor’s degree in Industrial Management, used the Distance Education thing to get my degree done in 4 years, y’all know the story. I want my Alma Mater to realize that it’s fine to rally around the flag and to declare the racism acts on notice. BUT: I want to also say that it’s going to take more than just one day of a rally to end it. It needs to be on the tasks everyday to let those know that it’s an everyday battle. And for those who feel are in denial, or felt that it’s gotten over. I conclude this story with these two words: WAKE UP!

And to add: get out of the funk, out of the denial, out the “negropean mentality” (for those that are black and don’t see it and thinking it won’t effect them) and many others who think that having black friends is a conclusion of no real racism, or planning to move to getaway from racism in all, even saying it’s 2014, I say again: WAKE UP!

Not a dis today on “the spot”. But I had this notion on my mind for a couple of days. I was on the internet one day (actually this week) and I have researched mostly about African American Alumni Chapters at Universities. I didn’t know that University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and countless others have either a Black Alumni Chapter or a African-American Alumni Chapter for their Alumni Associations.

Here’s my question: Why doesn’t UW-Stout have this?!

Hey UW-Stout, I’m Stephen, a 2006 Alum, and I have an idea in which would be beneficial to you in regarding the Alumni Association support. No it’s not money, nor classes to help improve or merchandise to maintain or grasp new. I’m talking about forming an Alumni Association group, or a subgroup for a potential African American Chapter. Not to be confused with the Black Student Union currently in which it’s still active, but what about a “Black Alumni Union” Or a “African-American Alumni Chapter” for Stout?

Hear me out. I am well convinced about the low population of blacks that attend on campus. And by the way, during my 2002-2006 days, I was a distance education student, an off campus student, and I’m sure many in the big areas of the Alumni Association needs to know. If anyone on the current board for the University, is reading this with interest, or on the Black Student Union Chapter Board is serving, I want you to think about this seriously. Why do I think UW-Stout should establish a Alumni Group for Alumni of African Decent?

1) It would help or assist the needs of the Alumni Association in terms of recruitment, classes, and many other uses of importance of the University. Including at greater assistance of the the Black Student Union.

2) The group could assist the use of more diversity among the campus body, and abroad that could boost the universities goals or objectives.

3) NETWORKING with other alums of color no matter the location or occupation. In terms of jobs, or social events.

4) Assist or support with fundraising or donations to the organizations.

5) Establishing the achievement of the African-American Alumni or Black Alumni of the University in careers, community, sports, military and many other endeavors.

6) Able to recognize the recognition of the current students of African Decent for support and sponsorship.

This list was just a small sample I can come up with. In addition with a potential African American or Black Alumni Group, this should also influence other groups of Latino, Hmong, Native American, to have their own Alumni Chapters in relation to UW-Stout. Mainly this is not a way to divide the folks in the school. In Milwaukee, I went to at least three Alumni UW-Stout functions and yes I met those in the city that are alums. But after this realization: I need to meet more of UW-Stout Alums who are African Decent also. No matter where they are, or what their occupation of work.